15 U.S.C. § 7441: Cybersecurity competitions and challenges

to identify, develop, and recruit talented individuals to perform duties relating to the security of information technology in Federal, State, local, and tribal government agencies, and the private sector; or to stimulate innovation in basic and applied cybersecurity research, technology development, and prototype demonstration that has the potential for application to the information technology activities of the Federal Government; and ensure the effective operation of the competitions and challenges under this section. students enrolled in grades 9 through 12; students enrolled in a postsecondary program of study leading to a baccalaureate degree at an institution of higher education; students enrolled in a postbaccalaureate program of study at an institution of higher education; institutions of higher education and research institutions; veterans; and other groups or individuals that the Secretary of Commerce, Director of the National Science Foundation, and Secretary of Homeland Security determine appropriate. Federal agencies; regional, State, or school programs supporting the development of cyber professionals; State, local, and tribal governments; or other private sector organizations. ethical hacking; penetration testing; vulnerability assessment; continuity of system operations; security in design; cyber forensics; offensive and defensive cyber operations; and other areas the Secretary of Commerce, Director of the National Science Foundation, and Secretary of Homeland Security consider necessary to fulfill the cybersecurity mission. shall consult widely both within and outside the Federal Government; and may empanel advisory committees. The Director of the Office of Personnel Management may support, as appropriate, internships or other work experience in the Federal Government to the winners of the competitions and challenges under this section.